ROCKLAND POST DESK
NEW CITY — The long-vacant Sain Building on New Hempstead Road is finally back in the spotlight as Rockland County officials review three competing proposals for redevelopment. After nearly a decade of sitting empty, the 3.7-acre site could soon see new life.
The building, which once housed county offices, has been largely unused since offices relocated, leaving a prominent vacant structure in the heart of New City. County leaders have repeatedly called the property “an eyesore” and stressed the importance of returning it to productive use. “We need to make smart use of our resources,” one county legislator said during a 2024 committee meeting, noting the high maintenance costs of the outdated building. Another official added, “It’s not just about replacing a building; it’s about bringing something that benefits residents, neighbors, and the town’s economy.”
Three Proposals Under Review
The three redevelopment proposals currently being considered generally fall into these categories:
1. Mixed-Use Residential – Multi-family apartments combined with retail or community space, designed to increase housing options and generate tax revenue.
2. Senior Housing – Age-restricted units for older residents, similar to earlier stalled proposals, aimed at providing housing without significantly increasing traffic or density.
3. Commercial / Office Development – Office or medical space, creating daytime activity and expanding the town’s tax base.
County and Town of Clarkstown officials are reviewing the proposals carefully, evaluating financial feasibility, traffic and infrastructure impact, and neighborhood compatibility. Planning board hearings and public meetings are expected once a preferred developer is chosen.
Recent Meeting and Public Process
Officials recently held a county meeting to review the proposals and discuss the site’s future. While no decisions were made, county staff highlighted the ongoing effort to move the project forward after years of delays and stalled redevelopment attempts. Attendees discussed how to balance housing needs, infrastructure improvements, and community concerns.
Community input has been a central part of the process. Residents have expressed mixed feelings, raising concerns about density, parking, and how new construction would fit into the downtown area. Others have welcomed the redevelopment as a long-overdue improvement for a prominent, vacant property.
The condition of the Sain Building was again noted as a challenge. Many officials said the structure is outdated and would likely require demolition rather than renovation, reflecting the high cost of maintaining the existing facility.
Looking Ahead
No developer has been officially selected, and no construction has started. County leaders say additional reviews, public input sessions, and zoning approvals are expected before a project moves forward. Local officials hope the redevelopment will revitalize the area, provide needed housing options, and put the long-vacant property back to productive use.
After years of delays and stalled attempts, the Sain Building may finally have a chance for a new chapter — one that benefits the community, fits the downtown character, and addresses both economic and housing needs.
More updates will be reported as the county moves closer to selecting a developer and finalizing redevelopment plans.